The explosive growth of computer networking is creating new pressures on computer professionals to not only have a firm grasp of networking basics, but also to understand the latest developments in network design and software implementation. This comprehensive, practical course provides that critical understanding by clearly detailing networking fundamentals, operating system essentials, and cutting-edge LAN design features. This course helps strengthen your knowledge of networking fundamentals, with detailed coverage of interprocessor communications, permanent virtual circuits error control, physical layer software, sliding window protocols Protocols are also examined, as are the unique design challenges presented by local area networks.

1.0 Introduction to Computer Networks
1.1 interprocessor Communications
1.2 Computer Network Architecture
1.3 Classifications of Computer Networks
1.4 Network Topologies
1.5 Computer Network Applications
1.6 Network Operating Systems
1.7 OSI Reference Model
1.8 Design Considerations of Network System Software
1.9 Network Performance
1.10 Summary

2.0 Physical Layer
2.1 Introduction to Data Transmissions
2.2 Fourier Theorem
2.3 Modulation Techniques
2.4 Multiplexing Techniques
2.5 Nyquist Theorem
2.6 Shannon Theorem
2.7 Switching Methods
2.8 Physical Layer Design
2.9 Physical Interfaces
2.10 Summary

3.0 Data Link Layer
3.1 Basic Design Concepts
3.2 Error-Detecting Codes
3.3 Sliding Window Protocols
3.4 Other Design Issues
3.5 Data Link Layer Design
3.6 Data Link Simulations
3.7 XMODEM
3.8 Binary Synchronous Communications
3.9 Synchronous Data Link Control
3.10 High-Level Data Link Control
3.11 Conclusions
3.12 Summary

4.0 Local Area Networks
4.1 Basic Design Concepts
4.2 Medium Access Control Sublayer
4.3 Logical Link Control Sublayer
4.4 Ethernet
4.5 Token Ring
4.6 Token Bus
4.7 Fiber Distributed Data Interface
4.8 Distributed Queue Dual Bus
4.9 Conclusions
4.10 Summary

Length:
Approximately 45 class hours and 15 lab/workshop hours

Method of Evaluation:
1. A mid-term examination, worth 30% of the final grade
2. A final examination, worth 40% of the final grade
3. Several assignments, worth 30% of the final grade

Teaching Method:
The course is to be offered in a standard lecture format.

Textbooks:
Computer Networks: Architecture, Protocols and Software, 1996
John Y. Hsu
Artech House

Location:
Classes will be conducted at the campus of the Institute.

Theory/Skills Objectives:
Upon completion of this subject, the successful student will:

1. Have basic understanding on interprocessor communications, network architecture, network  topologies,
    applications, network operating systems, network access methods, the OSI models,     
    layer primitives, protocol data units, the communication processor, the host processor,     
    performance issues, and program design language.

2. Have basic knowledge on the physical layer such as transmission media, transmission modes,  waveforms,
    Fourier analysis, signal attenuation/distortion, modulation, multiplexing, Nyquist  theorm, Shannon
    theorem, switching methods, and the physical layer software.

3. Have basic knowledge on the data link layer such as error detecting codes, CRC, FCS, sliding  window
    protocols, error control, character stuffing , bit stuffing, piggybacking, and software simulations.

4. Have basic knowledge on local area network such as Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, token ring, fiber  distributed
    data interface(FDDI).